Good Research Practice & Integrity

Research Codes

Researchers flourish in a culture that is characterized by independence and integrity. All employees, including PhD candidates of Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), as well as students of LUMC and others who are conducting research with the LUMC or using LUMC facilities, are expected to conduct research according to the highest ethical and professional scientific standards.

Shared values are accuracy in planning and conducting research, objectivity and honesty in reporting research results, openness in sharing research materials, fairness in reviewing grant proposals, respect for patients, volunteers and animals being subject of scientific research and respect for colleagues. There is no single source for scientific standards. They are defined by government regulations, institute policies, professional codes of ethics, and commonly accepted practices.

For promoting and maintaining an ethical research environment the LUMC is working on a research environment in accordance with rules and conditions imposed by Good Research Practice (GRP). For further information see tab GRP. Part of this is training young researchers, but also regularly organized meetings for all researchers discussing integrity.

The LUMC has installed a Confidential Advisor (de Vertrouwenspersoon voor de Wetenschap) and a permanent Committee Scientific Integrity (Commissie Wetenschappelijke Integriteit). For further information see tab 'Committee Scientific Integrity'.

Important guidelines for all LUMC employees involved in scientific research and education are worded in a guide to ethical scientific conduct:

At the same time, not every ethical dilemma or responsible action will be addressed by existing standards. A key aspect of Good Research Practice is the application of good judgment and personal integrity.